New Year’s resolutions remain a cultural staple, symbolizing fresh starts and self-improvement amid the turn of the calendar. Yet, as we enter 2026, recent studies and surveys from 2023 to 2025 reveal a persistent gap between aspiration and achievement. This report synthesizes key findings from academic research, national polls, and expert analyses, exploring who makes resolutions, what they entail, why most falter, and evidence-based strategies for success. Drawing on data from over 10,000 participants across multiple sources, it highlights trends that could help turn fleeting vows into lasting change.
Prevalence and Demographics: Who Commits to Change?
Resolutions are far from universal, with adoption rates hovering around 30-40% in recent years. A 2023 Forbes Health/OnePoll survey of 1,000 U.S. adults found that 37% set resolutions for that year, with younger adults (18-34) at 59% compared to just 19% for those over 55. Parents were more inclined (54%) than non-parents (33%), and repeat resolvers dominated at 86% versus 11% first-timers. Similarly, Drive Research’s 2024 analysis reported 3 in 10 Americans making resolutions, with 49% of 18-29-year-olds participating versus 21% of those 50+.
Looking ahead, a December 2025 YouGov poll of U.S. adults projected 31% planning resolutions for 2026, with under-45s (43%) twice as likely as those 45+ (21%). Pew Research Center’s January 2024 survey of 5,140 adults echoed this, noting 30% made resolutions, often multiple, with younger groups prioritizing career goals (65% for 18-29s). Non-makers (70%) often cited disinterest (56%) or past failures (12%). Gender differences appear minimal, though women report slightly more pressure (64% vs. 60% for men). These patterns suggest resolutions appeal more to youth and parents, possibly due to life-stage optimism or family influences.
Common Goals: Health and Wealth Dominate
Health-related ambitions consistently top lists, reflecting post-pandemic priorities. The 2023 Forbes survey identified improved fitness (48%), finances (38%), mental health (36%), weight loss (34%), and diet (32%) as leading goals. Drive Research in 2024 reinforced this, with 79% of resolutions health-focused, including fitness and mental well-being. Pew’s 2024 data showed 79% targeting health/exercise/diet, 61% finances, 57% relationships, 55% hobbies, and 49% career.
For 2026, YouGov’s poll highlighted exercising more (25%), being happy (23%), eating healthier (22%), saving money (21%), and physical health (21%), with shifts like increased exercise (up from 22% in 2025) and decreased saving (down from 26%). Younger adults favor career pursuits (17% vs. 2% for older), mental health (24% vs. 10%), and learning new skills (23% vs. 9%), while women prioritize weight loss (21% vs. 13% for men). Statista’s 2025 chart aligned, emphasizing exercise, health, and savings as perennial favorites. Less common aspirations, like travel (6%) or meditation (5%), indicate a focus on practical, measurable changes.
Success Rates: The Sobering Reality
Success remains elusive, with long-term adherence often below 10%. Forbes’ 2023 data pegged average duration at 3.74 months, with 8% lasting one month, 22% two months, 22% three, and 13% four. Drive Research noted only 9% maintain resolutions year-long, with 23% quitting in the first week and 43% by January’s end. A 2020 PLOS ONE study of 1,066 participants found 55% deemed resolutions successful at one year, but action-oriented goals (e.g., “start exercising”) succeeded 58.9% versus 47.1% for avoidance-oriented (e.g., “quit smoking”).
Pew’s early 2024 check-in showed 87% keeping at least some resolutions a month in (59% all, 28% some), though 13% abandoned all. YouGov’s 2025 outlook was optimistic, with 89% of planners believing they’ll succeed (39% very likely, 50% somewhat). However, broader analyses like a 2023 University of Scranton study cited 8% achievement rate, underscoring the 92% failure norm. A 2025 Canadian survey reported 71% health-related goals, but success data mirrored U.S. trends.
Reasons for Failure: Pressure, Distractions, and Goal Design
Failure often stems from unrealistic expectations and lack of structure. Drive Research highlighted 92% non-follow-through due to waning excitement, distractions, and early quitting (e.g., “Quitter’s Day” in mid-January). Forbes noted pressure affects 62%, with only 20% using accountability measures (down from 77% in 2022). Avoidance goals fare worse, as per the 2020 PLOS ONE experiment. CBS News’ 2024 report echoed that most fail due to vague planning, with expert input on overambition. Defendernetwork’s 2024 piece cited just 6% lasting beyond a year, blaming unsustainable habits.
Tips for Success: Strategies Backed by Data
Evidence points to actionable steps. The PLOS ONE study showed moderate support (e.g., check-ins) raised success to 62.3%. Forbes recommended action-oriented goals, tools like apps (40%), and recommitment dates like June 1. Drive Research advised narrowing goals, using journals (35%) or trackers (30%), and allowing time. Branson Globe’s recent analysis suggested breaking goals into steps to beat the 9% success odds. Good Housekeeping’s 2025 list of 65 achievable resolutions emphasized small, positive changes. CFP Board’s report on debt/resolutions advocated for financial tracking to sustain motivation.
Future Implications: Evolving Habits in a Changing World
As resolutions adapt to economic pressures (e.g., saving money down in 2026 polls), future studies may explore AI-assisted tracking or post-COVID mental health focuses. With confidence high (80%) but adherence low, integrating behavioral science could boost outcomes. Ultimately, these insights reveal resolutions as powerful tools when designed smartly, potentially fostering broader societal well-being in 2026 and beyond.
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